The Ontario government is…

The Ontario government is proposing changes to its Pesticides Regulation that go in the wrong direction, inviting overuse of neonics by removing existing accountability mechanisms.

Neonics represent a major worldwide threat to biodiversity and ecosystems. In addition to well-documented threats to pollinators, the three main neonics — imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam —are contaminating Ontario waters at levels harmful to aquatic insects. Aquatic insects are an important part of the ecosystem. They provide food for fish, birds and other animals. Delaying action for another three to five years, as proposed, would allow neonics to continue to accumulate in the environment and prolong risks to many beneficial species.

I ask that the Government of Ontario maintain current restrictions on neonics, including third-party verification and reporting requirements, and to work toward a comprehensive ban on these chemicals.